Japan Travel Guide : 20 More Things To Do In Japan

20 Reasons Why Japan Is On A Whole Other Level

Japan is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, offering a dizzying combination of modern comforts and old world charms. High-rise skyscrapers and bustling streets contrast with traditional teahouses, historic temples and tranquil views of Mount Fuji. Whether you just want to learn how to eat sushi the right way or are a manga master ready to take on every karaoke bar in Tokyo, there’s something for every guy in Japan. Here are 20 more things you need to do on your next trip to the Land of the Rising Sun.

Experience: Soba

You’ve had soba noodles but you need to have soba in Japan. Made from buckwheat flour, soba noodles have a hearty, nutty taste and can be found in hot soups or served cold with a dipping sauce on the side throughout Japan. One of the most beloved soba spots is Sobatei Rakuichi in Niseko-cho. The cozy cabin offers handmade soba — served on its own or with hot duck soup and tempura spring onions — that’s so good that Master Chef Tatsuru Rai has become a soba celebrity.

Place To Eat: XEX Morimoto

Sushi is a stone’s throw anywhere in Japan and if you’re going to stuff your face with salmon, eel and tuna, do it at the hands of Master Chef Morimoto. Masharu Morimoto has changed the way we think of sushi with his flagship restaurant in New York City, along with numerous Iron Chef nods to his name, so a trip to his to XEX Morimoto is a must. Pull up to the white-wood sushi counter while skilled artisans prepare and assemble your sea eel and Carangidae nigiri. If you’re not feeling adventurous, they have California Rolls, too.

Must-Do: Eat Yakitori

When you say "Yakitori" in Japanese, it refers to skewered food (usually chicken), while "Yakitori-ya" (or yakitori dining) offers a casual dining experience with locals. Toriki in Tokyo is a no-frills comfort food joint where you can order nearly every part of the chicken from the grill. Wings, hearts, gizzards and even tail meat arrive sizzling.

However, if you find yourself in Yurakucho make sure to drop by Yakitori Alley. It's filled with the aforementioned yakitori-ya complete with terraces in which you can enjoy some yakitori in the open air — just don’t burn your mouth. In fact, it's best to keep an ice-cold Sapporo on hand.

Place To Eat: Minokou

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When in Kyoto, you must enjoy Kyo-Ryori or “Kyoto cuisine”, which is not only a meal, but an experience for all your senses. Dishes are characterized by the use of seasonal ingredients, with a focus on aesthetics and are served over several courses.

Head to the 100-year-old Minokou restaurant for a sumptuous, multi-course feast of soup, sushi and meats. Not ready to shell out for an 11-course dinner? Try the lunchtime sampler in shiny lacquer bento boxes.

Experience: Street Eats

Japan is home to some of the tastiest and most diverse street food. Traverse the alleys of Fukoka for food stalls, or Yatai, and dine on regional flair. From yakitori to Hakata Ramen (a ramen noodle dish in a pork bone based soup), there’s something for everyone even if you're the pickiest tourist, or the most adventurous foodie.

Must-Do: Animal Cafes

If you’re into furry friends, there’s several places in Japan to drink among cats, bunnies and owls — Oh my! In a country where pets are hard to keep due to space, many patrons like their drinks with a side of Fido. At Ra.a.g.f Rabbit Café in Tokyo, you can pet the rabbits in 30-minute intervals and buy bunny chow to feed them.

Experience: Emergency Drinking-Alcatraz E.R.

Why drink your booze in some divey watering hole when you can do it in one of Japan’s endless list of strange and weird bars? Like its name, Alcatraz E.R. is a creepy prison-meets-hospital bar in Shibuya. Complete with waitresses in nurses outfits and syringe cocktails, it’s strange, deranged and disturbingly fun.

Must-Do: Streetwear Watch

Streetwear heads already know Japan is popping when it comes to the latest fashion trends. Whether it’s Bathing Ape hoodies or visvim boots, you can find lots of heat in stores and boutiques as well as on the backs of cool kids walking the streets.

Experience: Go Small at a Capsule Hotel

Space is at a premium in Japan and budget-conscious travelers know that capsule hotels are the way to go. These small and efficient units are compact and ideal for businessmen and tourists (Note: Many capsules are male-only). Take off your shoes and place them in a cubbyhole and put on the gown you’ll get when you check in. The walls are thin so be a good neighbor. The Capsule Ryokan Kyoto offers tatami mats and high-speed internet, giving you the best of traditional and modern.

Must-Do: Shukubo KomadoriSanso

After running around Japan all day, you need some rest and relaxation. Head to one of Japan’s many natural hotels and chill out. Shukubo KomadoriSanso offers a serene stay with mountain views — near hot springs — on the outskirts of Tokyo.

Experience: Tea Ceremony

In Japan, tea is more than going to the local coffee shop and grabbing a Venti on-the-go. The tea ceremony is traditional, sacred and peaceful. Head to Kyoto En and book a group or private tea ceremony and learn to savor each sip.

Experience: Get Lost at Shibuya Crossing

Whether you’ve been to Japan before or not, you’ve seen Shibuya Crossing. The iconic intersection outside Shibuya Station is crammed with shoppers, commuters, tourists, traffic and flashing lights. It’s a whirlwind of activity. Don’t get lost…or run over.

Must-Do: Karaoke Cosplay

Cosplay, or costume play, is a favorite Japanese hobby. At Karaoke no Tetsujin, karaoke is served with a side of dress up. Rock out while looking like your favorite anime character or try on period costumes, funny hats and accessories.

Experience: Yakatabune Cruise

For a unique and mind-blowing look at Tokyo's downtown, take a float down the Sumida River aboard a yakatabune cruise. A yakatabune is an old-fashioned Japanese houseboat that goes on year-round and provides riders with unbelievable views of numerous Tokyo landmarks including the Rainbrow Bridge, as well as offering Japanese and tempura meals.

An Adrenaline Hit: A Dive Into History

Japan is a favorite destination for divers across the world. If you’re a diver and a World War II buff, try the day dive trip in Okinawa to the U.S.S. Emmons. The American warship sank in 1945 and the wreckage can be experienced first-hand with dives from 36-45 meters. It's quite the rush and provides a chance for all of us to see a piece of world history.

Event To See: Cherry Blossoms at Ueno Park

As noted earlier, millions of visitors head to Japan to experience the cherry blossoms, but the place to do it at is Tokyo’s Ueno Park. It’s one of the most popular spots — yes, there will be a crowd - -for viewing these gorgeous, sweet-smelling flowers. The park has more than 1000 trees leading towards the National Museum and around Shinobazu Pond.

Must-Do: Get Zen at Meiji Shrine

Both historic and beautiful, the Meiji Shrine has been visited by celebrities and heads of state for years. Built in 1920, the shrine honors Emperor Miji (the first emperor of modern Japan) and Empress Shoken. Take in the tranquility and have a moment of reflection.

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